Pauley Perrette, best known for her beloved role as Abby Sciuto on NCIS, has always intrigued fans with her gothic style and bubbly personality. But beyond her famous pigtails and lab coat, there’s so much more to the actress that many people don’t know. From her academic pursuits to her personal passions, Pauley has led a life full of fascinating twists.

Few realize that before becoming an actress, Pauley studied criminal science and sociology, hoping to work in law enforcement. That real-life interest in crime-solving made her portrayal of Abby feel so authentic. She also has a love for music, once fronting a punk band and even lending her voice to several tracks over the years.

Another surprising secret is her generous heart. Pauley has long been a passionate advocate for civil rights, animal rescue, and disaster relief. She’s donated large sums of money to causes she cares about, often quietly and without seeking attention. It’s clear there’s much more to her than meets the eye — and that’s exactly why fans continue to adore her.